Robert Downen

Robert Downen, a Texas Tribune reporter known for exposing abuse within the Southern Baptist Convention, and Sarah Pulliam Bailey, a seasoned religion reporter, dive deep into the moral panic surrounding rock music. They discuss the phenomenon of backmasking, revealing how hidden messages in songs fueled fears about youth corruption. The conversation further uncovers the dark legacy of influential church leaders, allegations of abuse, and the culture of silence within religious institutions, urging reform and accountability. It's a gripping exploration of power, faith, and music's impact.

Kathy Hoppe, an associate professor and ordained minister, shares her experiences as a woman navigating the Southern Baptist Convention, while Robert Downen, a Texas journalist, unpacks the complexities of Christian nationalism. They discuss the historical struggles of women in the SBC, the conservative resurgence of the 1980s, and the impact of the Me Too movement on accountability within the church. Their insights reveal the challenges and resilience of women who strive for equality and recognition in a traditionally male-dominated environment.

Journalist Robert Downen joins the discussion on white Christian replacement fears in Texas, covering the True Texas Project's controversial conference, the integration of biblical stories in school curriculums, and the legal battle over Annunciation House aiding refugees. The conversation delves into far-right movements resisting demographic changes threatening white Christian dominance.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Amy Isham, a Catholic theological librarian, shares the chilling story of Joan Leonora Taylor's exorcism in rural Australia, highlighting how mental health often clashed with faith. Matthew D. Taylor discusses the New Apostolic Reformation’s influence on American politics, particularly following the events of January 6th. Robert Downen addresses the rise of Christian nationalism in Texas while honoring abuse survivor Duane Rollins, revealing a complex web of faith, politics, and lasting societal impacts.

In this conversation, Kathy Hoppe, an associate professor of psychology and former church planter, discusses her challenging journey as a woman in ministry within the Southern Baptist Convention. Robert Downen, a reporter focusing on extremist movements, sheds light on the influence of figures like Paul Pressler and Paige Patterson during the conservative resurgence. They explore the intersection of conviction and politics, the resilience of women in ministry, and the ongoing challenges of seeking recognition in a predominantly male-dominated church environment.